One of Hip-Hop’s most unique emcees has died. Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest has passed suddenly.

The exact details of his passing was not immediately know, but some have stated it was renal disease, a product of diabetes. He also received a kidney transplant in 2008.

He was 45, RIP Legend!

Update:

Phife’s Family Issues Statement

“Malik was our loving husband, father, brother and friend. We love him dearly. How he impacted all our lives will never be forgotten. His love for music and sports was only surpassed by his love of God and family.” The family of A Tribe Called Quest group member, Phife Dawg

Phife, born Malik I. Taylor, passed away due to complications from his struggle with diabetes.